Have finally found a kit maker that equals, if not surpasses Tamiya. I’m in the middle of AM’s Avenger whose castings i noticed are done in Korea, and boy are they terrific! Absolutly no flash. Crisp castings and perfect fits. The only thing they fall behind Tamiya is the directions. There’s confusion as to what instrument panel to use (they give you two) and the exact positioning of some of the parts tends to be vague. But i can’t wait to build another of their kits…probably a B-25. I’ve flown radio op in one during the K war.
They are availible from Squadron and from Great Models Web Store. The only part defect I’ve noticed with the kit is a slight mold mis-alignment on the engine pistons. As far as the directions go you must remember that these were done by the old AM, the new AM puts a lot more effort into their product.
The Avenger is certainly one of the finest kits ever produced, even if it is a little tricky here and there. Speaking of the “new” AM, WHERES MY VINDICATOR?
AM’s Avenger kit is an outstanding build, the turret assembly notwithstanding. It can be a real bear if you’re unprepared. The AM webpage has an article on how to successfully assemble and place the turret in the completed kit. Check it out.
AM makes wonderful kits. They are a more complicated to build compared to Tamiya. Sometimes I think they are just a little bit over engineered. Not sure if the new AM has released any new kits yet. They are designed in the USA, but produced in Korea.
I just can’t believe how much Trumpeter kits are. They are mostly designed and made in China. So much for cheap labor. Some of the Trumpeter kits of definitely not worth the price.